Signs of Community
by Maddy Wells
In the Lincoln community, there exists a smaller group bound by the shared struggle of homelessness. Within this group, connections form—moments of solidarity that offer hope and help in the fight for survival. But as the day ends, these connections often fade, leaving individuals to face the world alone once again. The homeless community comes together for support, finding strength in one another as they navigate each day.
Payden Bain sits with Rebecca Mitchell on the traffic island near Hy-Vee in Lincoln, Neb., sharing a warm meal he received. As they sit together, they find comfort in each other's company.
Payden Bain and Rebecca Mitchell step onto a city bus in Lincoln, Neb., on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, heading to Hy-Vee to panhandle for money. Public transportation provides a crucial means for those experiencing homelessness to reach high-traffic areas.
Payden Bain stands on a traffic island near Hy-Vee in Lincoln, Neb., on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, holding a sign while seeking help from passing drivers. A Lincoln City Mission truck passes in the background—a resource Bain chooses to avoid, believing it is neither clean nor helpful.
Rebecca Mitchell joins Payden Bain in Lincoln, Neb., as she creates her first sign to ask for money. Bain, who has panhandling experience, gives Mitchell tips on telling the truth with her sign to connect more honestly with people.
Rebecca Mitchell holds a pocket-sized Bible in Lincoln, Neb., as she prepares to ask for money with her sign. Her faith, she says, helps her get through the difficult days on the streets.
Rebecca Mitchell stands in front of Hy-Vee in Lincoln, Neb., holding a sign that shares her story of escaping domestic violence. Her goal for the day is to raise $50 and secure a warm meal.
Rebecca Mitchell ends the night at a bus stop in Lincoln, Neb., smoking a cigarette. "I'm at my lowest moment, and nobody will help me," she says, facing another night without a place to sleep.